Condolences

Reine Naggar
June 11, 2019

What's in a name? It depends.
MARIE ASSAAD to me represents: love, courage, sincerity forgiveness, generosity, modesty and so much more. She has always been my role model, but however much I try I will never reach a small fraction of what she was. I am still trying.Though she has departed from our world, she remains alive in my heart. Thank you dear for just having been YOU.

Bakheet of APE
September 21, 2018

حقيقى جنازة امنا مارى اسعد كانت مهيبه وحضور 5اساقفه وعدد من الآباء الكهنه وعدد كبير من الشخصيات العامه وتقريبا كل متطوعات الجمعيه وكلمات الأنبا يؤانس والانبا موسى والانبا مكسيموس وبرقية سيدنا البطرك معزيه جدا وعبرت عن شخصية هذه الام الفاضله المناضله المتواضعه ..وداعا يا امنا إلى ان نلقاكى

Nadra Garas
September 20, 2018

I just heard about Auntie Mary. I have no words to express my sorrow at the loss of such a wonderful inspiring person who has made so much difference in everything and everyone she knew..  She touched my life in so many ways....I miss her all those years when I was in the US and did not visit often. She leaves a void in all our lives and I can only imagine how difficult this must be for you all.   My condolences to all the family.

Nabil Abadir
September 14, 2018

رحلت في هدوء وسلام ماري أسعد صاحبه العطاء والمبادرات الإنسانيه التي كانت سابقه لعصرها متحديه تابوهات مجتمعنا،  رحلت من تعلمنا علي يديها وفهمنا وأدركنا قيمه الحياه الإنسانيه والعطاء الإنساني، رحلت تاركه ورائها إرثا عظيما من الخبرات والدروس،
رحمه الله الواسعه تغمرها، وعزاءً لأسرتها وتلاميذها ومحبيها.

Hind Mahmoud
September 14, 2018

النهاردة رحلت ماري أسعد إحدي أهم المناضلات ضد ختان الإناث  و اللي كانت سابقة عصرها و متواضعة و محدش يعرف كتير عن اللي قدمته لمصر و للقضية دي... ماري أسعد من مؤسسات قوة مناهضة الختان في التسيعنات في مصر و يرجع لها فضل كبير اوي في المعركة المستمرة لتجريم الختان و مناهضته في مصر.... ألف رحمة و نور <3

Nabil Abadir
September 14, 2018

رحلت في هدوء وسلام ماري أسعد صاحبه العطاء والمبادرات الإنسانيه التي كانت سابقه لعصرها متحديه تابوهات مجتمعنا،  رحلت من تعلمنا علي يديها وفهمنا وأدركنا قيمه الحياه الإنسانيه والعطاء الإنساني، رحلت تاركه ورائها إرثا عظيما من الخبرات والدروس،
رحمه الله الواسعه تغمرها، وعزاءً لأسرتها وتلاميذها ومحبيها.

Alain et Monique Gazon
September 9, 2018

Teta Marie vous a quittés après une longue vie dédiée aux autres.
Ces témoignages nous disent quels combats elle a mené et quels exemples elle a pu donner à tous ceux qui comme elle voulaient changer et améliorer la vie de toutes ces victimes innocentes, prisonnières de coutumes passéistes, tellement insensées mais que beaucoup, encore malheureusement, ne penseraient même pas à réformer s'il n'y avait pas de personnes aussi courageuses qu'elle.
Elle est partie sûrement en paix avec le sentiment d'avoir bien rempli son contrat sur cette terre, mais malgré ça, c'est toujours une souffrance de devoir se séparer de ceux qu'on aime, et je pense à vous tous, à tous vos bons moments en famille au 1095 de la corniche, toutes vos réunions familiales, les Christmas carols, et tout, et tout…
Aussi une pensée pour Nicole, son message en dit bien long, Marie a été son mentor, son guide et son étoile. Sa maman égyptienne qui lui a donné toutes les clés pour l'introduire dans sa nouvelle vie.
Et pour Christine et Julia, une présence pleine d'amour et une force et un enthousiasme qui leur ont donné des ailes…
Quant à Adel, même si toujours un peu discret dans l'étalage de ses sentiments, il parlait d'elle avec énormément de respect et manifestait toujours son admiration avec les mots justes calibrés, sans emphase, mais avec une telle sincérité.
Sa vie fut bien remplie, elle a fait beaucoup ; c'est facile pour vous maintenant, il n'y a qu'à suivre son exemple ;-)  et comme elle vous atteindrez la paix.

Toutes nos condéléances à toute la famille Assaad
On vous embrasse bien fort.

Mathieu, Nassira, Mila Gazon
September 9, 2018

Nous pensons très fort à vous en ces durs moments que sont la perte d’un être cher.
Marie a été une grande femme qui a tant œuvré pour les autres. Nous avons vu qu’il y a eu de nombreux hommages, représentatifs de son engagement. Cela rappelle aussi en ces temps difficiles ce qui peut être fait par l’engagement de certains.
Encore une fois nous pensons à vous, partageons votre peine et vous embrassons très fort.

Yasmina Abou Youssef
September 9, 2018

Habibty I am out of words she was el Baraka Kollaha. She was the mentor and a true guide to a rightful path. God bless her soul.
ربنا يصبركوا
She was a dear person and warm to many people throughout all generations Habibty

Julie Gazon
September 9, 2018

Je viens d'apprendre par le mail de Julia le décès de Marie. Je savais qu'elle était très malade, j'espère que ses derniers temps n'ont pas été trop pénibles.
Vous devez être bien tristes et je vous envoie toutes mes pensées et mon soutien de loin
Je ne l'ai pas beaucoup rencontrée mais j'ai souvenir d'être allée chez elle quand nous étions venus en Egypte en 92. Je me souviens d'une femme chaleureuse et souriante avec un regard vif et pétillant de malice.
Je sais qu'elle était si importante pour vous tous et que vous garderez d'elle  beaucoup de choses exceptionnelles.

Livia Giannotti
September 9, 2018

I can’t believe it’s true, I can’t believe she left us too. I’m sanding you as much love as I can hoping you will be able to feel it even if there is a phone and a lot of distance betweeen us. ❤❤❤❤ she, together with my nonni, will forever be part of my heart and never ever forgotten.

Giulia Giannotti
September 9, 2018

My dear ... a big hug...sure that now Nonna Marie will be with Nonna Laila and they will protect all of us... all my love to all of you

Donatella Battachi
September 9, 2018

I'm really upset at this news..i'm near at you and all the family i pray for her and all family and remenber a wonderful nonna and woman!! I have old portable hope  u recived many kisses dona

Suzanne Sidhom
September 9, 2018

Please accept my deepest condolences for the passing away of your mother and grandmother.

I keep on hearing stories of her life, work and achievements for many many years. She was a great woman who touched people's lives and changed many of them.
I am sure she will be greatly missed.
May Jesus comfort you during this time of sorrow and
Loss.
May you cherish wonderful memories of the times
you spent together
And may her memory be forever.

Sorry we could not pay our respects in person as we are not in Cairo.

Heartfelt condolences to you and the rest of your family

Samiha Sidhom Peterson
September 9, 2018

Greetings Christine. I just wanted to say I am sorry we lost Marie who was a great person who gave so much. She lived a full life and was able to touch many lives. May she Rest In Peace and may you comfort in the many special memories

Hind Wassef
September 6, 2018

I am devastated to hear the loss of our pioneer, big sister, role model, best friend and generally most wonderful lady, Marie. I’m sure you and the family are very upset and wish you endurance as you mourn this extraordinary presence that you were lucky enough to have amongst you.

Celine Grey
September 6, 2018

I just saw the sad news last night of Marie's passing and I wanted to let you both know that we are thinking of you all. I know how much you cherished your Grandmother and what a huge gap will be left in your lives without her. I hope that her memory and legacy will bring you all some comfort at this time of loss.

Jonathan Keehn
September 5, 2018

Marie was a truly remarkable woman with impeccable ethical standards and a deep love of her family and gender and country. Please accept My condolences to you and all the family. I miss her already.

Yasser El Tal and Family
September 5, 2018

It is difficult to express by words alone the saddens and sorrow we all have for the loss of a women that has left her thumb print on life at large, as a mother , a wise out spoken fighter for the right causes  , and her reach to God and the heavenly world . While we regret her departure of our  mortal world,  we pray to God to place her in heavens , and provide her loved ones with patience and acceptance of Gods will.

Nabila Samak
September 5, 2018

You believed in an almost impossible dream, inspired so many and mentored even more. Your feistiness, passion, vision and love for what you do lives on in those that believed like you! You changed the lives of so many! You did not leave...you just moved to a better place dearest Marie Assaad
Live in peace forever 🙏🏻❤🍃

Rania Alex
September 5, 2018

"عزيز فى عين الرب موت اتقياؤه"
كنتى مثل أعلى وعظيم جدا فى حياة من حولك فنحن لم ننساكى ابدا لانك فى قلوبنا وانتى الان فى افضل مكان لانك دائماً تستحقين الأفضل .

Nadya Shanab
September 5, 2018

What an a amazing woman...
It saddens me that you are no longer with us and you will be terribly missed by many. You have indeed touched the lives of so many and your beautiful smile and open arms will always be remembered. May you rest in peace lovely Marie Assaad.

Wafaa Zaklama
September 5, 2018

Aunti Marie
What an amazing person who left us. Remarkable, kindhearted, talented, admired,respected , energetic, strong , inspiring , words will always fail to describe you. You gave so much love to each and every person you met, we are all blessed to have been experienced your warmth and love. You may be gone but never forgotten. Rest In Peace , your soul must be rejoicing .

Sameh Gayed
September 5, 2018

Dearest Marie Assaad you have lived a life worth living.
#communion of love ended here only to continue eternally on the other side.

Soheir Mourad
September 5, 2018

Dr Marie Assaad passed away 😰
It is a big loss
May the Lord repose her soul
Our Godmother you impacted life of so many ❤ Rest In Peace

Nihal Amin
September 5, 2018

You will be greatly missed tante Marie Assaad, an amazing soul & a wonderfully diligent women advocate ....😢❤
May your soul RIP....🙏🙏🙏

Louly Ibrahim
September 5, 2018

Auntie Marie, you were a ray of sunshine in my childhood. With your smile and the way you looked into my eyes, you made me feel loved, special, precious and that I do exist....I was just a young neighbor, who saw you occasionally , I  didn't attend a lot of the social events, just a few Christmas parties, remembering till now the amazing ginger cookies. I was very touched when my daughter got married four years ago and you sent a very generous gift saying that "we need to encourage the young generation as they start their new life" and you never even saw her. I was so privileged to have been one of the hundreds who passed by your life, you have left a print on my heart which I am forever grateful for. I love you so much. Your life is a true cause of celebration.

Heba el-Kholy
September 5, 2018

I wanted to reach out to you and to Hani to let you know how very saddened I was to hear of Marie’s death.  My deepest condolences to all of you. Aunt Marie was such a remarkable woman, such high integrity. She touched so many people and made us all better human beings as a result. She was one of my very very few women role models in Egypt.  I will always remember her with love and respect. I learnt so much from what she said and did, and just as important from what she did NOT say and do. I so regret that I never managed to go visit her at home the past few years and that I could not be in Cairo for her final farewell.  May her beautiful soul rest in peace. Send you lots of love and light.    

Heba

Tanya Rentz
September 4, 2018

Dear Auntie Marie,

As a child you and Uncle Assaad were my refuge from what was sometimes a silent home.   Some of my happiest memories were riding in the car in the Alps with you, Auntie Laila, Mummy and Maureen, Janine wasn't born yet, singing "Aupres de ma blonde", "A la claire Fontaine", "Lundi matin", "The man in the flying trapeze", "He sat on the piazza and played his guitar", "Kookabara"--the summers in Ma'amoura, laying in the warm sand, eating halawa, hours in the sea--climbing Mt. Moses at St. Catherine's, lunches in Garden City.  

As an adult, you sometimes didn't understand my choices.  At Kitkidizze, as I washed dishes on a pallet in the meadow, you said, "did you have to come to America to do this?  You could have done this in Egypt!!"  :-). Yet you loved- Jonathan, me,  Sam, "he's a lovely boy".  You inspired me to know the value of working for the poor at Head Start.  You feared my going to Palestine.  Yet you loved- even when you criticized and "hit me on the head" like Julia said.  

You touched and inspired so many, with the warmth of your smile, your hugs, your laughter, your teachings.

The ache in my heart will be tempered by the images of you smiling,

Love, Tanya

Ezzat Naeem
September 4, 2018

رحلت ماري اسعد في هدوء بعد انا جاهدت الجهاد الحسن واكملت السعي واخيرا وضع لها اكليل البر الذي تستحقه
لقد تتلمذت على ايدين طنط ماري (زي ما كانت تحبنا نناديها) واشتغلت معاها لمدة 17 سنة تعلمت علي ايديها كل شيء يجعل مني انسانا يشعر بالام واحتياج الآخرين وكيف اعمل معهم وبمشاركتهم لكي اتعلم منهم لا ان اعلمهم... طنط ماري اسعد هي امي الروحية هي اللي جعلت مني حد الناس ممكن تشاور عليه وتقول انه ناجح وصاعد من قاع المجتمع يعافر من اجل خدمة اهله والنهوض بهم وبنفسه معهم.. طنط ماري علمتني ازاي اصبر واجاهد واتعلم اثناء الخدمة والعمل وانهل من انهار العلم والمعرفة والحكمة المتدفقة من قلبها قبل عقلها وكمان علمتني ازاي اتعلم من كل اللي حواليا حتي من الاطفال...  طنط ماري هي اللي دفعتني لللامام هي اول انسانة تتيح لي كل الفرص من السفر لخارج مصر للتعلم وتمثيل اهلي مرورا بكتابة المشاريع وادارتها والتخطيط السليم بكل مستوياته..  علمتني اؤمن باهمية التعاون مع كل الجمعيات والمؤسسات والجهات المعنية بقضايانا  واولهم الجهات الحكومية قبل المدنية والقطاع الخاص و كان لي الشرف مشاركتها نضالها ضد ختان البنات حتي نجحت في اقناع الكل واولهم الدولة في القضاء علي هذه العادة الغريبة عننا وكان لي الشرف مشاركتها تاسيس نادي الطفل والحضانة ومشروع اعادة تدوير الورق ومشروع فصل القمامة من المنبع ولجنة التنمية والصحة ومشروع مقاومة الفيروس الكبدي الوبائي وغيرها من المشاريع في جمعية حماية البيئة
الله يرحمك يا طنط والف مبروك عليكي الابدية السعيدة مع المسيح والي الملتقي يا امي الفاضلة

Nufi Assaad
September 4, 2018

Teta Mary, You have been an inspiration to many, to each in a special way.
As a woman, you taught all women around you to participate in life as a co-partner next to man, as much as each one can.
SO, I learned to have a voice, eventhough it is a very small one. I learned to be active & share my part in contributing to my society, my community of love &  my country.
Until we meet & be all together with our Lord;
your's Nufi

Rasha Hammad
September 4, 2018

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away.

May you have crossed over to a better dimension, Auntie Marie—a force of nature who taught me the importance of serenity and inner peace especially during some of the inevitable darker journeys we all encounter, to see the positive in every situation with strength and determination, to live my life on my terms and to the beat of my own heart, and to understand that prioritizing myself was not selfishness but selflessness. Be kind. Be giving. Be true to yourself. Bless you always… ♥♥♥

Care with Love
September 4, 2018

كانت الراحله الكريمه ماري أسعد -صاحبه العطاء والمبادرات الإنسانيه منذ مقتبل حياتها- من الأوائل الذين عضدوا ودعموا وشجعوا مبادره الدكتوره ماجده إسكندر في رعايه المرضي والمسنين في منازلهم، فقد آمنت ماري أسعد بالفكره ورأت أن ذلك إحتياجا ملحا للمئات من الأسر المصريه والتي أصبحت نتيجه لظروف الحياه وقسوتها لاتستطيع من ناحيه إحتمال تكاليف وضع المريض أو المسن في بيوت أو مراكز فقط أصبحت مكلفه جدا، وكذلك ليس لديهم الوقت الكاف لرعايه مرضاهم في منازلهم، كما آمنت الراحله الكريمه بأن المبادره هامه لإعداد كوادر من الشباب من الجنسين لمهنه جديده للمجتمع وهي مقدم الرعايه الصحيه المنزليه علي أسس من القيم والمبادئ الإنسانيه في الرعايه.
وظلت الراحله حتي لحظاتها الأخيره داعمه ومشجعه ومعطاءه للدكتوره ماجده إسكندر مؤسسه جمعيه الرعايه بالمحبه وللجمعيه.
نذكر الراحله الكريمه بكل الخير والشكر لأجل حياتها وخدمتها وتضحياتها
رحمه الله الواسعه تغمرها، وعزاءً لأسرتها وتلاميذها ومحبيها.

صلاة الجنازة الأحد ٢ / ٩ الساعة الواحدة ظهرا من كنيسة السيدة العذراء بالزمالك المرعشلى.

Ghada Waly
September 4, 2018

يوم حزين جدا للعاملين في التنميه  و لمصر و للانسانيه..... يوم رحيل ملاك  ملهم يشع حماسه ومحبه و ايمان ورحمه .... سيده صغيره الحجم  كبيره التأثير .... تلهم وتبهر كل من يقابلها وتؤثر فيه للأبد ....العاملين في التنميه مدينين لها. ....هي بالتأكيد في مكان  أفضل ❤

The National Council for Women
September 4, 2018

ينعى المجلس القومى للمرأة برئاسة الدكتورة مايا مرسي وجميع عضواته واعضائه ببالغ الحزن والاسي  السيدة  مارى أسعد التى وافتها المنية أمس.
 واعربت الدكتورة مايا مرسي عن حزنها الشديد لفقدان الوطن إحدي أهم الأيقونات المصرية الرائدة فى  علم الاجتماع و الدفاع عن قضايا المرأة المصرية وتقديم العون لها.
 جدير بالذكر أن مارى أسعد  تخرجت من الجامعة الأمريكية وحصلت على درجة الماجستير فى علم الاجتماع والانسان و اهتمت بالدفاع عن قضايا المراة وكان لها دوراً كبيراً فى التنبيه إلى قضية ختان  الإناث.
كما قامت بعمل دعوة شاملة إلى الجمعيات والمنظمات الأهلية من أجل بحث القضية   ، وأسسوا لجنة تنمية وصحة لتقديم مساعدات طبية وصحية إلى السيدات والفتيات.
و تعتبر أول امرأة تتولى منصب أمين عام مساعد الأمانة العامة لمجلس الكنائس العالمي سابقا، و ساهمت بجهودها التطوعية الرائدة في العمل التطوعي داخل  المجتمع المصري ، وفي وسط الكنيسة الوطنية القبطية الأرثوذكسية المصرية أيضا .
ولم يقتصر دور ماري أسعد عند هذا الحد وإنما استطاعت طرح الأفكار على  المجتمع وتوجهاته لصالح قضايا المرأة فى مصر ودول أفريقيا وأسست العديد من البرامج مع السيدات في مصر لإلقاء الضوء على مشاكل المرأة و عملت لسنوات عديدة في مساعدة جامعي القمامة القاطنين في منطقة قرية الزبالين، من حيث توفير الخدمات الصحية لهم والتعليم لأبناءهم، وكان عطاؤها الوافر والوطني والإنساني لصالح المرأة المصرية، موضوعاً لرسائل علمية نشرت باللغة الإنجليزية.

Ministry of Culture
September 4, 2018

نعى المجلس الأعلى للثقافة برئاسة وزيرة الثقافة دكتورة إيناس عبد الديم  الأستاذة الدكتورة ماري أسعد الباحثة المصرية والإنثروبولوجية الرائدة في الاهتمام بقضايا المرأة والختان والزواج المبكر وبرامج التنمية الاجتماعية والثقافية وقيم العمل التطوعي ، والتي أفنت حياتها من أجل تعزيز حقوق المرأة المصرية.

وهي أول من نبه صناع السياسات في مصر والدول النامية منذ السبعينات من القرن الماضي الي مخاطر الختان وأهمية تمكين المرأة من الحياة الكريمة ومكافحة ثقافة التمييز ضد النساء ، وتعزيز العمل التطوعي وتعليم الحرف وتحسين نوعية الحياة من خلال ورش الغناء والفنون التشكيلية للأطفال الفقراء في المناطق العشوائية.

وكانت ماري أسعد نموذجا للمرأة المصرية والمثقفة التي أبت التقوقع في عالم النخبة أو الضجيج الاعلامي حول دورها وظلت تكتفي بالسعي الدؤوب لجعل لثقافة آداة لتحقيق التنمية المستدامة ومن خلال العمل مع الناس وبهم ومن أجلهم.

وكانت الدكتورة ماري أسعد قد توفيت صباح اليوم عن عمر ناهز 96 عاما.

Nihad Abou el Komsan
September 4, 2018

فى الجنة يا مارى اسعد يا ست الستات
خلال ٢٥ سنه من العمل فى المحاماة والاهتمام بقضايا المجتمع المدنى كل ما يسألنى حد مين اكثر انسان اثر فيكى
بعد ابويا ادور الاقى اول انسانه تيجى فى دماغى هى العظيمه / مارى اسعد
عرفتها بعد ما اتخرجت فى مؤتمر السكان والفضيحه العالميه بتاعه فلم الختان اللى عملته السي ان ان
هى اول حد قال زعلنين ليه وشايفينها فضيحه اذا كان ٩٠ فى الميه بيختنوا ، يا اما نبطل ختان يا اما نقول دا اللى بنعمله بكل فخر ، السي ان ان كشفت جريمة بنعملها كل يوم بمنتهى الرضا
وشكلت قوة عمل لمكافحة ختان الاناث ، اختارتنى منسقه اللجنة القانونيه مش عارفه ليه رغم عدم وجود سابق معرفه وكنت حديثه التخرج
شافت شئ انا مشفتوش فى نفسى وقفت جنبى وراجعت معايا افكار كثيره واتعلمت منها يعنى ايه نحط هدف ونشتغل عليه
فتحت بيتها لمصر كلها وعمرى ما حسيت بالراحة فى مكان اد بيتها
كنت متخيله الناس كلها زيها بس كم الحرب اللى كانت ضدى وشفتها على مدار السنين علمتنى ان مارى اسعد شخصيه نادرة الوجود
النور اللى يعدى على حياتك فيفتح الطريق وتشوف لقدام مسافة طويله
مع السلامه يا مارى
ربنا يديكى على قد اخلاصك وحبك لبلدك ودعمك لكل الناس
ست الستات فى الجنة ونعيمها
دا مكانك يا قديسة

Reem El Tal
September 4, 2018

Auntie Marie, you were a divine soul among us and you blessed us with your teachings that we will always carry with us and pass on. We are so proud and fortunate to have had you as our leader and matriarch. I love you so much and I know your magical soul is free now and roams with us in all the beautiful things and that it will always show us strength even though you are not physically with us to tell it how it is. God bless your soul.

Christine Assaad
September 4, 2018

My dearest Tatouti, you left us today to be in a much better place. I know you are now in heaven, a free soul liberated from your earthly body. May you continue to guide us and bless us from above as you have always done here on earth. I am privileged beyond words to have been your grand-daughter and immensely blessed to have had you in my life enriching it for 41 years. A great deal of who I am today is thanks to your loving guidance, mentorship and ever lasting support. You have been an essential pillar in my life and in our whole family’s life. You have been a beacon of enlightenment, having a lasting impact on so many people (family, friends, co-workers’s lives) and on intellectual thought and social movements. You advised people on all aspects of life and people have always loved you and respected you. You leave an immense void. You were truly one of a kind. You always created a ‘Community of Love’ and used ‘Collective Wisdom’. These are precious words you coined which we all use daily.

I love you so very much and I miss you already and although for now, in my sadness, I cannot imagine my life without you being present in it, but I also know your presence will always be felt even though you are no longer physically with us ❤❤❤

Patricia Battachi
September 4, 2018

I’m so sad to read on Facebook that Nonna Marie is gone ... a big hug 😘❤

Seheir Kansouh
September 3, 2018

It is with much sadness that I read of the passing away of a very special woman, an icon and a saint, Marie Assaad.

She meant a lot to me and despite my not being in her close circle, we were close at heart and maintained steady rapports throughout the years. I am grateful for her having her being part of my life.

I am sending my condolences to you, Ragui, to your brother Adel, and to Yousriya her dearest friend, and to Christine, her beloved granddaughter, and to Nimet and her sister Suzan, the latter three I knew in connexion with her mémoires in « Daughter of the Nile: Egyptian Women Changing their lives » I knew what a place she held in their lives. Losing a dear friend is losing family.

May she Rest in Peace with the prayers of all those whose lives she enlightened with her kindness and giving.

I am glad of the decision by the book editor, Dr. Samia Spencer, to have half the proceeds go to her project for « Zabaleen » the other half going to « Banaty ». Even if it is modest, it is a sign of international recognition, hoping it will continue as what the sister Habashys do, from afar. I am sure she would love to see her work go on without interruption.

Sharing your sorrow.

Anne Marie Campo
September 3, 2018

Ma chère Christine, Je viens d'apprendre par hasard le décès de votre grand mère. J'ai beaucoup aimé Marie les années de travail sur le terrain au Mokkattam nous a fais nous apprécier, l'une à l'autre. Je garde d'elle : des images des attitudes des combats, elle était la femme, cette femme pétrie du limon des ancêtres les plus prestigieux  elle était une grande personalité egyptienne citoyenne copte. Tout en elle était énergie positive :  une âme de feu une battante un sourire communicatif une intelligence hors du cummun un grand coeur ouvert à l'humain dans toutes ses détresses une foi profondement  enracinée  au Dieu de Jésus Christ.

Josette Tagher
September 3, 2018

Je suis josette, la fille de Jeannette Ayrout, et quand j'ai lu le mail d'André annonçant la triste nouvelle de la perte de votre belle-mère et grand-mère, j'ai eu beaucoup de peine car je savais -et combien- comme ma mère l'aimait, l'admirait et l'appréciait. Tout comme elle vous aimait toutes deux. Elle m'a tellement parlé des Assaad que je me rends compte maintenant que je vous connais "bien".
En tous cas je n'oublie pas notre belle soirée chez vous dans ce merveilleux balcon donnant sur ce Nil que j'aime tant. Vous étiez toutes présentes, ma mère aussi.
Elle me manque toujours terriblement deux ans plus tard, même si les dernières années ont été bien difficiles...
Je lui racontais ce que je faisais et je pense qu'elle suivait bien, en particuliers les histoires de migrants de langue arabe que j'aidais et que j'aide toujours. Eh oui, me voici devenue interprète (ça fait sourire) mais j'y mets du mien et suis plus que jamais mes cours aux langues orientales.
Je pense venir au Caire courant novembre parce que je ne veux pas laisser notre maison s'écrouler lentement. L'an dernier je suis venue en Egypte deux fois car j'étais restée deux ans sans pouvoir revenir tant le souvenir de ma mère était fort..
Aujourd'hui, je partage votre peine d'autant plus qu'elle ravive la mienne et je vous embrasse très fort.

Leila Bisharat
September 3, 2018

So sorry to hear about Marie. One of the most remarkable women I have ever know .

Cynthia Myntti
September 3, 2018

Please accept my sincere condolences for the passing of Marie.  Even though I have been far from her in these last decades, she remained a profound role model for me.  Her social conscience, grace,  persistence, generosity:  the combination of these qualities made her a truly unique and treasured person.  It's the passing of an era.  We will miss her.

Mira Gayed
September 3, 2018

What a wonderful and continuous influence Teta has on my life and on the lives of countless more, piercing through all layers of society. My words are not enough to describe how blessed and honored I am to have experienced her as a humble listener and caring and encouraging Teta while being the wise leader and bold pioneer that she certainty was. May her peaceful smile till her last breath be a reason for us to find peace and hope. I wish you strength in the midst of this great loss.

Cynthia Raley
September 3, 2018

I just want you to know that I am feeling for you at this sad time with the passing of your aunt. You spent valuable time with her and gave your love to a very special person. She knew how much she was loved and I understand she had a peaceful ending after a limited quality of life. It is difficult but celebrate all that she contributed to the social issues of her time and that her legacy and example will live on through you all.

Magda Abu-Fadil
September 3, 2018

My most sincere condolences to you and the family. She was an exceptional lady who will be missed.

Laila Erder Bisharat
September 3, 2018

Marie’s passing, though expected for many years, still comes as a blow for all, I’m sure. Her energy, wisdom and love of life seemed boundless - indomitable.
I remember how deeply she impressed me in 1976 when I first met her, long before I knew Suhail.
She marched to her own, very special drummer, never letting anything deter her from what she thought was right.
Over the years, no matter how long the time between my last visit, she always made me feel completely at home.
All of you gathering at 1095 Corniche El Nil must feel her absence terribly. Please give my love to Ragui, Hani, Adel, Nicole
May you all find strength together from her memory - and may dear Marie Rest In Peace in The knowledge of a life very well lived.

Paige MacLean
September 3, 2018

We were so thankful to have been able to spend time with Marie on our past visits to Cairo, and to see her in on our trip in March. She was so warm and courageous, and was an inspiration to so many women in Egypt and around the world, myself and Grace definitely included!   There is no doubt that her legacy will live on through the work that she initiated and the many people who will follow in her footsteps.

Gehanne Abdel Malek
September 2, 2018

My deepest condolences for aunt Marie, a remarkable women and a great friend. I just got back from Switzerland and was looking at the group picture in St Cergue 40 years ago, what an amazing time. God bless her soul and give you and Ragui, Adel, Nicole and Christine the courage and strength to go through those tough time. Always in our hearts, Gehanne

Sherif Hakim
September 2, 2018

Andrée se joint à moi pour vous dire bon courage aujourd’hui, c’est une journée très pénible et très difficile, Andrée a passé par ça en 2013 et moi en 2014.
On aurait bien aimé être avec vous aujourd’hui mais tout ce qu’on peut dire c’est que nos pensées seront avec vous.
Andrée et Shérif

Nawal Kamel
September 2, 2018

I am deeply sorry that I cannot be with you tomorrow, when we say goodbye to our dear Marie. I am with you in heart and prayers. Best wishes With much Love, Nawal

Mounir Neamatalla
September 2, 2018

After having gained and lost more than one mother over the years, of whom I count Marie as one, it has occurred to me that indeed, I never lost them. Our mode of communication had simply been reconfigured. I still maintain the exchange of feelings, with sometimes even higher levels of intensity. I am sure it will be the same with all of us, who have known Marie and genuinely loved her. May the cloud of sadness fade away as quickly as it has appeared.  May it also be forever  replaced by the memories and future enchanting  exchanges we will certainly experience with her, over the years to come ; hug from the heart to you all, Mounir.

Youssef Hammad
September 2, 2018

I am sending you my deepest condolences and sympathies to you and your family. What a wonderful human being she was. She was someone who I grew up with and always admired her. She is one of the best souls that I have ever come across. Sending you lots of love and a big warm hug.

Paul El-Fishawy
September 2, 2018

We wanted to wish you our sincere condolences. We were sad not to be able to attend the memorial service today. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the whole family.

I know that mom and pop would also have liked to attend and they send you their condolences and greetings.

Virginie Darpheuille
September 1, 2018

Je partage évidement les mots de Gérard et voulais vous dire toute ma tendresse et mon soutien pour vous aider à traverser ce moment difficile.
Moi ce sont les images du mariage de Christine qui me reviennent en mémoire, et effectivement ce sourire lumineux et ces mains, menues et fragiles, qui battaient la mesure en vous regardant danser…
J’avais sur les conseils de Gérard lus plusieurs articles consacrés à son action et à son engagement notamment en faveur des femmes. Chapeau.
Mille pensées vous accompagnent et vous portent, je l’espère très fort.

Ragia Omran
September 1, 2018

في رثاء معلمتي و اساتذتيالفاضلة ماري اسعد التي رحلت عن عالمنا اليوم ٣٠ اغسطس في هدوء و سكينة كماعرفناها خلال حياتها.
ماري اسعد الي علمتني و أجيال كتير من قبلي ومن بعدي قيمه العمل الاهلي والمجتمع المدني والتطوع والعطاء وروح الفريق و التعاون والتضحية والتفاني من أجلالمجتمع.
انا كتبت جزء من البوست ده قبل كده وقت إعادة تأسيس قوة العمل لمناهضةالختان في فبراير الماضي واعتقد انه مفيد انشرة تاني...
ختان الاناث ....اول موضوع اشتبك فيه لما ابتديت اكون جزء من المجتمعالمدني في مصر.
تحية شكر و عرفان وتقدير للسيدة العظيمة ماري اسعد الي أسست اول قوة عمللمناهضة ختان الاناث سنة ١٩٩٤ الي كان كل أعضاءها متطوعين من كل التخصصات .اناوقتها كنت المساعدة الادارية للاستاذة عزيزة حسين الله يرحمها لما كانت رءيسة لجنةالمنظمات الأهلية في متابعة عمل مؤتمر السكان و التنمية للأمم المتحدة ( كان ليهافضل عليا و اتعلمت منها كتير وايضا من راءدات العمل الأهلي في مصر و خصوصا في مجالتنظيم الأسرة) كنا بنجتمع في بيت ماري اسعد كل اسبوع و من خلال قوة العملاتعرفت علي اساتذتي عايدة سيف الدولة و امال عبد الهادي و من خلالهم اتعرفت عليالمرأة الجديدة و بقيت عضوة فيها من ١٩٩٥ ...وكان اول مرة اقابل الصديقة العزيزةعزة سليمان و أصدقاء كتير آخرين....جمعتنا ماري و عملنا بحماس و روح الفريق و كانلقوة العمل لمناهضة ختان الاناث دور في كسر التابو في الحديث عن الختان في المجتمعو بعدها بسنوات تبنت مؤسسات الدولة مثل المجلس القومي الأمومة و الطفولة رسالة قوةالعمل واستفاد كثير من الجمعيات و صندوق الأمم المتحدة للسكان و اليونيسف من خبرةقوة العمل .
انا كنت محظوظة جدا اني اتعرفت علي عزيزة حسين و عايدة جندي ( الله يرحمهاكان ليها فضل عليا و اعتبرتني جزء من عائلتها و من راءدات العمل الأهلي و من اولالمصريات الذين عملوا في الامم المتحدة كرءيسة لمنظمة اليونيسيف) و ماري اسعد فيأول معرفتي بالمجتمع المدني في مصر في ١٩٩٥.
عزيزة وعايدة و ماري كانوا اصدقاء من و هما في الجامعة الأمريكية و يعتبروامن اواءل جيل رائدات العمل الأهلي في مصر واهتموا بحقوق المرأة و الطفل و دورالمجتمع المدني في تحسين أوضاعهم. وجودهم في حياتي و حياة أجيال من قبلي و من بعدياثر فينا ...علمونا حاجات كتير أهمها قيمة التطوع و العطاء و العمل من أجل المجتمع.
برحيل ماري يسدل الستار عن هذا الجيل من المصريات العظيمات end of an era كما يقولون.
اتمني ان تستمر سيرتهم العطرة في إثراء و تعليم أجيال جديدة من المصريينالمهتمين بالعمل العام.
الف رحمة و نور علي ماري اسعد و عزيزة حسين و عايدة جندي ....اخيرا اتجمعوامع بعض .....سلمولنا علي الحبايب.

Mira Raley
September 1, 2018

Marie Assaad was our family’s source of positivity, enlightenment, joy, wisdom, hard work, perseverance, and great great love.

We love you to the moon and back. May you soul Rest In Peace Teta Marie ❤️

Sara El Sayed
September 1, 2018

Her generosity extended to people she didn't initially know, my first volunteer experience was with her guidance. From a young age she taught me how to love and be compassionate with others.

Laila Maurice Boulos
September 1, 2018

I knew this wonderful women since childhood, she was a close friend of my aunts at the YWCA . Her advices and encouraging were and still have a great influence in my life . May she rest in peace

Amal Zaki
September 1, 2018

She introduced me to volunteering at APE which has enriched my life. I will miss her very much, and she will never be forgotten. I always remember her with her famous words "community of love" as well as "collective wisdom" . May her soul rest in peace.

Iman Fathy Iskander
September 1, 2018

Aunty Marie was beyond special . She taught us all by loving and living

Nadine Barsoum
September 1, 2018

love you aunte Marie loads .. thank you for the years of overflowing and outpouring Love to GOD and to alllllllllllll .. ❤️

Shahira M Raphael
September 1, 2018

A precious soul to connect to & a real teacher to learn from, many life lessons!
Rest in peace & enjoy heaven ❤️

Assil Bakki
September 1, 2018

She is an angel in heaven praying for us all... Our sincerest condolences ❤️🙏

Azza Fahmy
August 31, 2018

Write to you to give you my condolence About your great grandmother.
I always remember her the first time I met her it was her n the beginning of my career.
It was the great madam Ghali. Who inrduce
Me to her. In that time I was doing.my first steps in the world of Jewellery.
She impressed me with her character. And personality
Time passes and I think I met her after twenty years in the زبالين معرض.  
May god let her soul rest in piece. (Sure it will happen. ) god never forget his great creation

Mona Makram Ebeid
August 31, 2018

It is with a very heavy and sad heart that I am offering you condolences on the passing away of one of the most  fantastic dedicated woman and so lovable and true to herself that I have ever encountered in my life !!!!

She will remain an ICON for all of us who were lucky to meet and work with her

May God give you strength to overcome your immense sorrow and may her soul rest in peace

Samia Spencer
August 31, 2018

Today, we are mourning the passing of a great lady, a pioneer, an inspiration, and an icon: Marie Assaad. She departed this earth for a better place, but leaves behind immeasurable achievements, and will remain alive in our hearts and our memories.

Shaimaa Magued
August 31, 2018

My deep condolences go to Dr. Ragui Assaad for the loss of his mom, a great and influential women whom I didn't have the chance to meet and know about before. The deep sorrow widely expressed on social media says a lot about an inspiring and strong women who moved mountains to improve women conditions such in Egypt throughout her entire life. The sole consolation that you would have over the loss of a great mom is to know that you are her continuing guiding light to whom I am grateful for many things in my career and accomplishments. Many thanks to you Dr. Ragui Assaad and may you have the strength and patience to overcome the pain of loss.

Jean-Pierre Gazon
August 31, 2018

C'est avec tristesse que j'ai appris le décès de Téta Mary, je pense à vous très fort et vous adresse toute ma sympathie en ce jour, où vous l'accompagnez pour lui rendre hommage et lui témoignez toute votre affection et votre reconnaissance.
Mary était une personne remarquable, connue  pour ses travaux, ses engagements, et jouissait d'une notoriété et reconnaissance nationale et extra national; elle a je crois mené une vie riche et bien remplie.
Personnellement, je l'ai connue et côtoyée lors de mes trois séjours en Egypte, puisque j'étais hébergé chez elle; et j'ai été frappé par sa simplicité, la très grande chaleur et bienveillance avec lesquelles elle m'a accueilli,
j'en garde un souvenir très ému; notamment des 2 ou 3 jours de campement sur le bord de la mer Rouge, avec vous et les cousins de Jordanie; elle était dynamique, enjouée, soucieuse et respectueuse d'autrui. Une grande Dame qui force le respect et l'admiration.
Christine se joint à moi pour vous présenter nos condoléances, nous vous embrassons.

Gerard Gazon
August 31, 2018

Votre grand mère que je connaissais un peu était une femme de qualité avec un sourire permanent sur son visage
Je me souviens de l affection que lea avait pour elle
Pour ce moment évidemment douloureux je et tous les GAZON de Vincennes sommes avec vous. Nous aurons une grosse pensée samedi pour vous
Courage les filles et amitiés à toute votre famille

Belgin Tekce
August 31, 2018

I am deeply saddened to hear about Marie, your dear mother and my precious friend.  She enriched my life in so many wonderful ways, and made Egypt an inseparable part of me.   Through the corridors of the Greek campus, the villages in Menoufiya, our visits to upper Egypt, to Sinai, and through the unforgettable events at your lovely apartment in its several incarnations, Sunday molokhias, she allowed me to enter gently into her life, into her family, and led me by the hand and imagination into the ways of her beloved Egypt.  She will remain, always, as an inseparable part of my life in that ancient land.

Huda joined us on our annual boat trip this year.  It was last week.  We were chatting about our days in Egypt, and somehow one person that we reminisced about so much, on Friday, was Marie.  I was determined to try to reach out to her once more upon return, having failed before, and then learned the news.

I wish I was there with you all tomorrow.  My thoughts will be.

In the meantime, please convey my condolences to the family.

May she rest in peace.

Nadia Wassef
August 31, 2018

You are the icon of multiple generations. You are the definition of giving back to your country and community, patience, and what it means to do social work. I am proud to have been a graduate of the school of Marie Assaad. Rest in Peace dearest Marie.

Amira Abou Taleb
August 31, 2018

A life spent trying to bring peace and rest to agonizing souls on this Earth now rests in heaven's peace.. Marie Assaad, The people touched by your love will be your beacon of light

Sherine Zaklama
August 31, 2018

An icon of giving and love. A great lady that will be greatly missed

Tamer Magdy
August 31, 2018

فقدت مصر وفقدت جمعية حماية البيئة من التلوث واحدة من اعظم السيدات اللاتي كرست حياتها لخدمة الاخريين و تركت بصماتها و افكارها المتنورة في قلوب جميع من عرفوها و ذكراها عطرة و خالدة ومحبتها خصوصا للجمعية
شجعت الكثيرين علي التفاني في العمل و العطاء و المحبة و المشاركة الانسانية الفعالة
لها كل التقدير والاحترام ونسأل الله ان يصبرنا علي فراقها

Maya Morsy
August 31, 2018

حزنت على فقدان هذه العظيمة السيدة ماري اسعد أيقونة مصرية علمتنا الكثير جدا جدا
نخسر معلمة اجيال متواضعة عظيمة لن ننساكي أبدا

Richard Tinsley & Fran Kiteley
August 30, 2018

I only met Marie three or four times but as Fran says it didn’t take long to realize she was a force majeure and from what you have told us , one to be reckoned with, not only within the family but also in her church and social endeavours.Her absence will be felt , especially by her family.

Even though her passing was not unexpected, it is still something that is difficult to accept and our thoughts go out to the Assaad family.

Gillian & Ben Minaker
August 30, 2018

Ben and I are so very sorry to hear of Marie's passing, we are sending you lots of love and our deepest condolences. Our hearts are with you and with the whole family, please pass along our love and thoughts to everyone.

I will forever cherish our time in Egypt with Marie and the family, and will always remember our magical tea in the desert together.

Barbara Tinsley
August 30, 2018

Marie will be forever associated in my mind with our once-in-a-lifetime, extraordinary trek (and it was surely a trek) to Siwa. I will remember her as there. Please know I am thinking of you all at this sad time.

Alia Zayda
August 30, 2018


في ناس كده متتعوضش، ناس كانوا سابقين عصرهم و عصور اللي بعدهم بمراحل... ستات قوية و غيرت حياة بني ادمين لا تعد و لا تحصي... وقت ما كان بيتقال للست تكتفي بابسط مراحل التعليم و فتح البيت كانوا هما بياخدوا ماجيستير و دكتوراة و يربوا اطفال و يصلحوا حال مجتمعات و يتكلموا في قضايا احنا لسه كمجتمع في 2018 بنتكسف نتكلم فيها. ناس بتاعت افعال و ليس اقوال. ناس صوتها هادي و واطي بس كلامها يهز جبال...


هما دول اللي أنا اتربيت شايفاهم حواليا... بالنسبالي ده كان ال default و لما كبرت فهمت قد ايه انا كنت محظوظة و قد ايه هما كانوا حاجة كبيرة اوي اوي اوي متتعوضش... و بقول يمكن احسن ان ربنا عايزهم معاه لأن هما انضف و اجمل بكتير من انهم يعيشوا في الغوغائية اللي احنا بقينا فيها


Tante Marie Assaad may your soul ascend to heaven and rest in eternal peace... may you find as much peace and as much joy as you've given others throughout your life... may you be surrounded with as many people who love you as you've given out love and gathered people together... I hope you are reunited with your childhood friend who I miss so dearly. Give her a big hug from me ❤

Hanan Khalil
August 30, 2018

عزيز في عيني الرب موت اتقياءه
على رجاء القيامة انتقلت الأم الفاضلة ماري أسعد في هدوء وسلام اذكرينا أمام عرش النعمة

Safwat Shawky Bakheit
August 30, 2018

الله يرحمك كنت امرأه فاضله ورائعه في كل جوانب حياتك الله يعوضك أجرا سمائيا والعزاء للاسره والاحباء